Italy’s northeast is a haven for food and wine lovers, offering an array of gastronomic treasures. From the Venetian lagoon’s seafood and the sparkling wines of Prosecco to Friuli Venezia Giulia’s world-famous Prosciutto di San Daniele and distinctive wines, the region is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re savoring a glass of Amarone or touring a prosciutto factory, this corner of Italy combines tradition, flavor, and scenic beauty.
The Sparkling Charm of Prosecco Hills
The Prosecco Hills of Veneto, stretching between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the beloved sparkling wine. Prosecco Superiore DOCG, made predominantly from Glera grapes, is renowned for its light, fruity flavors with hints of green apple, pear, and white flowers. A drive along the Strada del Prosecco offers vineyard tours, wine tastings, and breathtaking views of rolling hills lined with vines. Pair your Prosecco with local delicacies like casatella trevigiana (a soft cheese) or Venetian-style seafood for a quintessential experience.
Friuli Venezia Giulia: A Land of Wines and Cured Meats
Friuli Venezia Giulia is a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts. The Collio and Colli Orientali regions produce some of Italy’s finest whites, including Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Malvasia, each reflecting the area’s unique terroir. Reds like Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso and Schioppettino bring spicy, earthy flavors that pair beautifully with the region’s hearty mountain cuisine. Many wineries offer guided tours, blending tastings with insights into sustainable winemaking practices.
No trip to Friuli is complete without indulging in Prosciutto di San Daniele, a dry-cured ham prized for its delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Visit prosciuttifici in San Daniele del Friuli to see the traditional curing process and sample this delicacy, often served with a glass of Friulano wine or crusty bread.
The Spirit of Grappa
Grappa, the iconic Italian pomace brandy, has deep roots in this region. Artisanal distilleries in Veneto and Friuli offer tastings that explore the spirit’s evolution, from unaged varieties with bold grape flavors to aged grappas with smooth, complex profiles. Distilleries like Nonino in Friuli Venezia Giulia have elevated grappa to a refined, globally celebrated drink. Many distilleries also craft infused grappas, flavored with local herbs, honey, or fruit, offering a unique souvenir to take home.
Gastronomic Treasures and Experiences
In Venice, the food scene centers around fresh seafood, with dishes like sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto). Pair these with regional wines like Soave or Bardolino. Street food enthusiasts can indulge in Venetian cicchetti—small plates enjoyed with a glass of local wine or a refreshing spritz.
The Prosecco Hills and Friuli also boast seasonal specialties. Look for radicchio rosso di Treviso, a bitter red chicory, and gubana, a pastry filled with nuts and dried fruits. Food tours in Friuli often include stops for cheese tasting, with highlights like Montasio DOP, a semi-hard cheese with a nutty profile. Adventurous foodies can join truffle-hunting excursions in the forests of the Collio hills or sample local honey and olive oils.
Planning Your Culinary Adventure
For the ultimate experience, visit during the region’s food and wine festivals. The San Daniele Prosciutto Festival and Vinitaly in Verona offer opportunities to immerse yourself in local flavors. Whether sipping sparkling Prosecco in Veneto or savoring a slice of San Daniele prosciutto with a glass of Friulano, this region guarantees unforgettable gastronomic adventures.
